This will act as the thread to which members can add maxims! The aim here is to have one place where everyone can comment to leave a maxim or more, and where others can comment on those comments. The next two comments are copied from James’ and David’s e-mails. But before that…

As surgeons keep their lancets and scalpels always at hand for the sudden demands of their craft, so keep your principles constantly in readiness for the understanding of things both human and divine… [Marcus Aurelius 3:13]

I do not doubt, too, that they may confer much to those who are novices and are still unskilled, for single maxims sink in more easily in the way a catchy tune does. [Seneca Ep 33]